Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri made a decision to bring on two players in the second half against Arsenal when the score was tied at 2-2, hoping to get his side in front in the game, but little did he know the mayhem he caused on social media afterwards.
Chelsea fans were absolutely over the moon to see such a positive change in their squad this season. After the summer transfer window was over in England a fortnight ago, Chelsea had brought in Mateo Kovacic as part of a huge deal to send Thibaut Courtois to Real Madrid. But many said the best deal was to keep Eden Hazard from the clutches of Real.
Hazard and Kovacic were the players that were selected by Sarri to march into the scene of battle and try and earn their side three big points. They managed it, and were immense in their short but efficient contribution to the game.
Kovacic did not lose possession even once after coming on to replace Ross Barkley while Hazard who was introduced for Willian, was at his magical best in grabbing the most important assist of the day, feeding Marcos Alonso for the winner against the Gunners.
Chelsea fans on Twitter showered both of them in praise, and deservedly so after great performances. It was also pointed out how many defenders will suffer this season if they face the duo.
Kovacic looks so impressive. Much stronger than I’d expected.
— Chels HQ (@Chels_HQ) August 18, 2018
I couldn't differentiate between Kovacic and Hazard. They have the same body movements #CHEARS
— FiantaD (@fianta_79025) August 18, 2018
https://twitter.com/jackdre02/status/1030906052471140352
Kovacic is some player. Completely changed the game when he came on.
Oh and how happy am I that we kept hold of our little Belgian superstar. Eden, you were magic today. #CFC
— Olivia Buzaglo (@OliviaBuzaglo) August 18, 2018
Jorginho and Kovacic are actually class, I’m so happy we have them this season – feel a lot more confident for the games this season!
— The Blue Co. Project Podcast (@BlueCoProject) August 18, 2018
Kovacic is showing everything Sarri hoped he would on his Stamford Bridge debut: Guile, energy & defensive tenacity. Very impressive #cfc #afc
— Liam Twomey (@liam_twomey) August 18, 2018
https://twitter.com/montecfc01/status/1030897723212476416
Brilliant game. Hazard and Kovaćić swung it. 3-2. Beginning of something very exciting for #CFC #CHEARS
— Omid Djalili (@omid9) August 18, 2018
Kovacic won nearly every duel and Hazard was untouchable. That linkup between the LCM and the LW is going to be a big big problem for RB/CB duos. Both players can penetrate with a pass or a dribble. Looked fluid after just one game.
— RG (@registability) August 19, 2018
Matteo Kovacic did more in his cameo than Barkley has in two games for us. Movement very similar to Hazard, and he should be starting for us from now on.
— Dami (@TheChelseaWay) August 18, 2018
Kovacic has to start from now on @ChelseaFC
— CFCBluesWave (@cfcBlueWave) August 18, 2018
Look how the game changed once Kovacic and Hazard came on yesterday. AFC immediately retreated. That's what quality can do. Momentum shifted in an instant.
— RG (@registability) August 19, 2018
Kovacic – Hazard left halfspace link-ups are going to be amazing. Two of the best dribblers around.
— JM (@JMftbl) August 18, 2018
Kovacic is absolute class, Hazard is class. Way to open at the back, Alonso is quality going forward but god does he need to learn his position and defend.
End of the day, 3 points and top of the league.
— Uber Chelsea FC (@UberChelseaFC_) August 18, 2018
Looking forward to seeing alot more of Kovacic-Jorginho-Kante.
— TweetChelseaUK (@TweetChelseaUK) August 18, 2018
I lost my self control when I saw Jorginho-Kovacic-Hazard exchanging passes. Inject it into my veins.
— Kwame (@__nkayyy) August 18, 2018
